New AI solutions and improvements to Microsoft Cloud for Nonprofit

New AI solutions and improvements to Microsoft Cloud for Nonprofit

Microsoft has announced a suite of new AI solutions and improvements to Microsoft Cloud for Nonprofit. These solutions are designed to transform the nonprofit industry by helping fundraisers engage with donors, manage campaigns, and optimize operations. The company also announced a limited private preview for nonprofits to experience a new AI-powered fundraising propensity model. This model will allow participating nonprofits to test new AI tools that can predict fundraising goals and identify donors most likely to donate to a campaign or cause.

According to Justin Spelhaug, Vice President and Global Head of Tech for Social Impact at Microsoft, “AI can and will be a game-changer for nonprofits and fundraisers.” With these new AI solutions, Microsoft aims to empower nonprofits and fundraisers to achieve more and create a more positive and rewarding experience for donors.

Nonprofits often struggle to make budgets go further and do more with fewer resources. Since 2020, many fundraisers have seen a decline in the number of donors giving to causes. Data can help nonprofits identify promising prospects, predict donor behavior, and measure fundraising outcomes. However, access to data and the ability to form actionable insights based on fundraising analytics is a major roadblock for many organizations.

volunteers helping sort out donation items into a box, new Microsoft Cloud for Nonprofit AI features announced

Microsoft Cloud for Nonprofit new AI solutions

Microsoft Cloud for Nonprofit now includes new tools such as a Fundraising dashboard built on Power BI’s data visualization platform, Dynamics 365 Marketing integration, and AI capabilities in the Fundraising and Engagement tools. These tools will help nonprofits leverage data in a powerful way to attract, retain, and grow their donor base.

In addition to these new capabilities in Microsoft Cloud for Nonprofit, Microsoft is developing an AI-based donor propensity model. This model will help nonprofits identify constituents most likely to donate or engage with a campaign or cause based on predictive donor behavior. Interested nonprofits can sign up to participate in this private preview.

These new AI solutions are built on Microsoft’s trusted cloud platform, Azure, which offers enhanced security, scalability, and reliability. They are also integrated with Microsoft’s existing solutions for nonprofits such as Microsoft 365, Power Platform, Microsoft Dynamics 365, and LinkedIn.

In 2017, Microsoft launched Microsoft Cloud for Good to help mission-driven organizations get access to technology to do more. Click to visit to learn more about these new AI solutions for nonprofits. Here is how nonprofits in Africa can benefit from the offer.

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PowerShot V10, Canon introduces lightweight and easy-to-use vlogging camera

PowerShot V10, Canon introduces lightweight and easy-to-use vlogging camera

Cannon is announcing the PowerShot V10 lightweight and easy-to-use vlogging camera for lifestyle and travel content creators. The all-in-one solution weighs 211g, offers 4K UHD movie recording, a high-quality microphone, built-in stand and 14 unique colour filters. The Canon vlogging camera targets those who want to take friends and followers along on their adventures, without having to carry a lot of equipment.

The PowerShot V10 features a sturdy vertical body design and can fit into a pocket. It promises compelling content thanks to a shake-free 4K UHD movie recording and professional looking background blur. The Canon PowerShot V10 features a large 1-inch CMOS sensor capable of delivering stunning 4K video quality, while also offering stills shooting capabilities. For added cinematic atmosphere, creators can quickly switch up the ambiance using any of the 14 included colour filter effects and Smooth Skin mode.

a closed silver Canon PowerShot V10  vlogging camera

The Movie Digital IS mode is ideal for handheld videography as it helps with avoiding camera shake, offering sharper, cleaner footage with more detail and clarity. Matching the broad capabilities of various social media platforms, the PowerShot V10 can shoot in both orientations and record up to an hour of continuous video.

Its auto level feature can help keep your video straight and avoid slanted clips, reducing time needed to edit your content. High-quality sound to make your message clear Perfect for any outdoor or urban environment, the PowerShot V10 is equipped with two large stereo microphones designed for narration and a third audio noise reduction microphone.

Canon PowerShot V10 specifications

  • Compact and lightweight vertical body
  • Wide angle lens focal length 6.6mm (35mm equivalent focal lengths are 18mm in stills and 19mm in video mode), f/2.8 maximum aperture
  • Movie recording in 4K UHD at 29.97/25.00 fps and Full HD at 59.94/50.00 fps
  • Face-tracking AF
  • Smooth Skin movie shooting mode
  • Large stereo microphone
  • Tilt-up screen
  • Built-in stand (easy tilt adjustment up to 30 degrees)
  • 14 colour filters
  • JPG still image shooting, equivalent to Scene Intelligent Auto
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Webcam [UVC/UAC]

On top of the built-in wind filter, an optional windshield can be purchased as part of the advanced accessories kit, further improving sound quality in outdoor conditions. Designed to capture all aspects of your life Housed in a vertical body and designed with simplicity in mind, the PowerShot V10 can be operated almost completely single-handedly. Equipped with a 2.0-inch LCD touchscreen which you can flip to the front, perfect for self-vlogging or recording others, it lends itself to handheld shooting, allowing you to easily capture emotions and create that intimacy between you and your viewers.  

The built-in stand gives you the option to record more free-standing content like cooking tutorials, hauls or popular formats like ‘Get Ready With Me’, ‘Unboxing’, ‘AMA’ or listicle videos.

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Cross-border payments in Africa, the state in 2023

Cross-border payments in Africa, the state in 2023

Cross-border payments are essential for facilitating trade, remittances, and financial inclusion in Africa, a continent with diverse and dynamic economies. However, moving money across borders in Africa is often costly, slow, and complex, posing significant challenges for consumers and businesses alike.

According to the World Bank, the average cost of sending $200 to sub-Saharan Africa was 8.2% in the first quarter of 2021, well above the global average of 6.5% and far from the Sustainable Development Goal target of 3% by 2030. Moreover, cross-border payments in Africa often suffer from low transparency, limited interoperability, and regulatory barriers that hinder competition and innovation.

Fintech companies are emerging as key players in addressing these challenges and transforming the cross-border payments landscape in Africa. Leveraging digital technologies such as mobile money, blockchain, and artificial intelligence, fintechs are offering faster, cheaper, and more convenient solutions for cross-border payments that cater to the specific needs of African consumers and businesses.

Some of the ways that fintechs are redefining cross-border payments in Africa include:

– Enabling direct transfers to mobile wallets and bank accounts, reducing the reliance on cash and agents. For example, Remitly allows African migrants to send remittances to mobile money accounts and wallets in over 20 countries across Africa, including MTN, M-Pesa, Airtel, Vodafone, and Tigo.

– Providing access to multiple currencies and exchange rates through online platforms and virtual wallets, minimizing foreign exchange volatility and transaction costs. For example, VertoFX is a B2B currency exchange marketplace and multicurrency wallet product that allows SMB clients to convert money from one currency to any of the other 30-plus currencies on its platform and hold the new currency in their wallet until they are ready to make a payment.

– Leveraging blockchain technology to enable fast, secure, and low-cost cross-border payments that bypass intermediaries and traditional payment rails. For example, BitPesa is a digital foreign exchange and payment platform that uses blockchain-based settlement to lower costs and increase the speed of business payments to and from frontier markets.

– Partnering with banks, regulators, payment networks, and other stakeholders to enhance interoperability, compliance, and customer protection. For example, Ukheshe Technologies is a pan-African fintech enablement partner that provides end-to-end payment solutions for banks, telcos, fintechs, and governments.

Fintech woes

Fintechs are set to play a vital role in shaping the future of payments in Africa, as they bring new innovations, entrepreneurs, and capital to the fast-growing electronic payments market. However, they also face significant challenges such as regulatory uncertainty, infrastructure gaps, cyber risks, and customer trust. To overcome these hurdles and unlock the full potential of cross-border payments in Africa, fintechs need to collaborate with each other and with other ecosystem players to create inclusive, interoperable, and sustainable solutions that benefit all stakeholders.

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LG gram SuperSlim: The Thinnest LG gram Ever

LG gram SuperSlim: The Thinnest LG gram Ever

LG Electronics USA has launched the latest addition to its new 2023 LG gram laptop lineup – the LG gram SuperSlim. Designed with ultra-portability in mind, LG’s gram SuperSlim laptops measure at just .43-inches thick, making it the thinnest LG gram ever. 

The SuperSlim laptop is available in two configurations: 15.6-inch, 32GB, 2 TB SSD for $1,999 and 15.6-inch, 16GB, 512GB SSD for $1,699. You can purchase it at LG.com or Amazon.com.

LG gram superslim laptop front view

The LG gram SuperSlim is equipped with Intel’s Evo 13th Gen Processor 2 and Intel Iris Xe graphics. As well as a 15.6-inch anti-glare OLED display with a 100 percent DCI-P3 3 color gamut and VESA DisplayHDR True Black. That is expected to deliver exceptional image resolution with true-to-life detail and stunning, deep black levels.

It weighs just over 2 pounds and has passed seven tests for military-grade durability. The gram SuperSlim is made for those who are always on the move. This LG gram also features a redesigned compact power adapter and multiple ports, including three USB Type-C ports, two of which support Thunderbolt™ 4 compatibility, and a 4 pole headphone jack to boost efficiency and productivity.

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Microsoft to host maiden Xbox Game Studios Game Camp in Africa

Microsoft to host maiden Xbox Game Studios Game Camp in Africa

Microsoft’s Africa Transformation Office (ATO) is announcing a two-day Xbox Game Studios Game Camp in Africa. To empower African creators to realize their potential in the gaming industry through unique learning experiences from industry leaders. The conference will run from July 15th – 16th, 2023.

The two full days events are themed “The Journey of a Game” and will offer multiple perspectives on the complex craft of game development. In addition, there will be online learning components to the camp, which will allow participants to engage with focused training modules on topics that align closely with their skills and interests, before and after the event.

While the camp is available online for all registered campers, Game Camp will also host in-person viewing events for 100 selected campers at the Microsoft campuses in Cairo, Johannesburg, Lagos, and Nairobi. These sites will offer viewing parties on-site panel sessions and opportunities to meet with Microsoft and Xbox personnel. Furthermore, teams or individuals with games to pitch are encouraged to do so.

Game Camp Africa on xbox controller logo as Microsoft hosts Xbox Game Camp in Africa

To participate, individuals must be of legal age, reside in any country on the African continent, and be studying or working part or full-time in the field of software development, visual arts, 3D, music and audio, web design, narrative design, or professional project management. See the complete list of participation requirements at Xbox.com.

At Xbox, we’re on a mission to bring the joy and community of gaming to the world’s 3 billion gamers and we recognize that Africa is home to the largest population of youth in the world, many who love to play. In 2019 I attended the opening of our Africa Development Centre and met with tech leaders, educators, and developers from across the region to understand their vision for the future of game creation. Through the inaugural Xbox Game Studios Camp Africa, in collaboration with Microsoft’s Africa Transformation Office, we have an opportunity to continue to deepen our relationships with talented developers in region and help African games studios realize their vision and role in the global gaming industry,” said Phil Spencer, CEO, Gaming at Microsoft.

The Xbox Game Studios Game Camp program is an initiative that unifies various Xbox initiatives under one umbrella where talent is celebrated and game developers are empowered to pursue their dreams.

At Microsoft, we are excited to enable African game developers and creators to build faster through access to tools and resources, and to help their games be discovered by players in Africa and around the world. We want to grow strong roots in this significant market for gaming and game development. The ATO and Xbox personnel will also combine efforts to identify game studios to invest in through our Startups acceleration program and venture capital investment partners. I’m looking forward to seeing what innovative concepts this Game Camp produces,” says Wael Elkabbany, Strategic Initiatives Lead for Microsoft CEMA.

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Here are simple ways to fix Windows 11 problems

Here are simple ways to fix Windows 11 problems

Windows 11 is the latest operating system from Microsoft, but it comes with its own set of issues and bugs. Whether you are having trouble installing Windows 11, experiencing slow performance, or encountering errors and crashes, there are some solutions you can try to fix common Windows 11 problems. In this blog post, we will cover some of the most frequent Windows 11 issues and how to fix them.

Windows 11 logo on a windows bloom image, post on how to fix Windows 11 problems

How to fix Windows 11 installation problems

One of the main hurdles to upgrading to Windows 11 is meeting the system requirements, which include a compatible processor, TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and enough disk space and memory. If your PC does not meet these requirements, you may not be able to install Windows 11 through Windows Update or the Installation Assistant.

To check if your PC is eligible for Windows 11, you can use the PC Health Check app from Microsoft or a third-party tool like WhyNotWin11. If your PC is not compatible, you may need to upgrade some hardware components or buy a new device that supports Windows 11.

If your PC meets the requirements but you still encounter errors or failures during the installation process, you can try some of these steps:

  • Run the Windows Update troubleshooter to fix any issues with the update service.
  • Disable or uninstall any antivirus or security software that may interfere with the installation.
  • Disconnect any external devices or peripherals that are not essential for the installation.
  • Clear some disk space by deleting temporary files, uninstalling unused apps, or moving files to an external drive.
  • Download and run the Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive or DVD and install Windows 11 from there.

How to fix Windows 11 performance problems

If your PC is running slow or lagging after upgrading to Windows 11, there are some ways to improve its performance and speed up your system.

  • Check for updates and install any available patches that may fix bugs or optimize performance.
  • Adjust your power plan settings to balance performance and battery life.
  • Disable unnecessary startup programs that may slow down your boot time and consume resources.
  • Use Task Manager to monitor your CPU, memory, disk, and network usage and close any apps or processes that are hogging resources.
  • Run Disk Cleanup or Storage Sense to free up disk space and remove junk files.
  • Defragment your hard drive or optimize your SSD to improve data access and speed.
  • Update your drivers and firmware to ensure compatibility and stability with Windows 11.

How to fix Windows 11 error codes and crashes

Windows 11 may sometimes display error codes or crash unexpectedly due to various reasons, such as corrupted system files, hardware issues, driver conflicts, or software incompatibility. Depending on the type and severity of the error, you may need to take different actions to fix it.

Some of the common error codes and crashes on Windows 11 are:

  • Error code 0xC1900101: This indicates a driver problem that prevents Windows 11 from installing or updating. To fix it, you can try updating or rolling back your drivers, uninstalling any third-party antivirus or security software, disconnecting any external devices, or using the Media Creation Tool to install Windows 11.
  • Error code 0x80070070: This means that you do not have enough disk space to install or update Windows 11. To fix it, you can try clearing some disk space by deleting temporary files, uninstalling unused apps, or moving files to an external drive.
  • Error code 0x80070002 0x20009: This suggests that there is a problem with the boot configuration data (BCD) that prevents Windows 11 from installing or updating. To fix it, you can try rebuilding the BCD using the Command Prompt in the Advanced Startup Options menu.
  • Blue Screen of Death (BSOD): This is a serious system crash that causes Windows 11 to stop working and display a blue screen with an error message. To fix it, you can try booting into Safe Mode and performing a system restore, updating or uninstalling faulty drivers, scanning for malware, checking for hardware problems, or resetting your PC.

How to fix other common Windows 11 problems

Besides the above issues, there are some other common problems that users may face on Windows 11, such as:

  • Wi-Fi not working: If you cannot connect to Wi-Fi on Windows 11, you can try resetting your network settings or updating your Wi-Fi drivers.
  • Slowness: Restart your computer. This will allow it time to have all active programs close which gives space for new ones to be opened without any disruptions in performance.
  • Upgrade issues: You may come across commonly known issues during and after the upgrade, such as installation errors, compatibility issues, or driver issues. To fix these issues, you can try updating your drivers or running the Windows Update troubleshooter.
  • Blue screen of death (BSOD): This is a critical error that can occur when there is a problem with your hardware or software. To fix this issue, you can try updating your drivers or running the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool.
  • App compatibility issues: Some apps may not be compatible with Windows 11. To fix this issue, you can try running the app in compatibility mode or updating the app.

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